In a logical left shift, the bits are shifted to the left by a specified number of . The bit (sign bit) is shifted out/discarded, and the vacant position on the right is filled with a . Logical left shifts are primarily used for unsigned integer and simple bit operations. For example, if you perform a left shift of 1 on the binary number 10110101, it becomes 01101010.
In a logical right shift operation, the bits of a binary number are shifted to the right by a specified number of . New bits are introduced on the side, and the rightmost bits are discarded. Each right shift effectively divides the number by for each position shifted. For instance, if you right-shift the binary number "1010" by one position, you get "0101," which is equivalent to dividing 1010 by 2^1 (2). This illustrates a key advantage of storing numbers in binary, as division becomes a process.
Logical shifts are utilized in computing and digital systems for several purposes, primarily in operations. They are used to manipulate individual bits in a binary number, allowing for clearing or setting specific . A logical left shift effectively multiplies a number by 2 for each shift position, while a logical right shift divides a number by 2 for each shift position, but without extension.
